A new broadband driver amplifier delivers high gain, strong output power and low distortion across 6–18 GHz for electronic warfare and communications applications.
Qorvo has introduced the QPA0023, a broadband driver amplifier covering the 6–18 GHz frequency range. Fabricated using the company’s 0.15 μm pHEMT production process (QPHT15), the device is designed for electronic warfare (EW) and communications systems that require high output power, low distortion and straightforward system integration.
The QPA0023 provides 14 dB of typical small-signal gain while delivering a typical output power at 1 dB compression (P1dB) of 29 dBm. The amplifier is also capable of achieving a saturated output power of 30 dBm, making it suitable for demanding broadband RF applications where signal integrity and power are essential.
To improve linearity, the device offers a typical third-order intermodulation distortion (IM3D) level of –42 dBc when operating at a 20 dBm output power per tone. This low distortion performance helps maintain signal quality in systems handling multiple frequencies or complex modulation schemes.
The amplifier is internally matched to 50 ohms and integrates DC-blocking capacitors on both input and output ports. This approach simplifies circuit design, reduces the number of external components and eases integration into existing RF subsystems.
According to the published specifications, the QPA0023 has a typical noise figure of 5 dB. It operates from a 5 V supply with a typical drain current of 400 mA and a gate voltage of –0.5 V. The device is housed in a compact 4.5 × 4.5 × 1.62 mm package, allowing designers to incorporate it into space-constrained systems.
By combining broad frequency coverage, high gain, robust output power and integrated matching, the QPA0023 is intended to support next-generation defence electronics and communications equipment requiring reliable performance across a wide operating bandwidth.
